MRI with ultrahigh field strength and high-performance gradients: challenges and opportunities for clinical neuroimaging at 7 T and beyond

Research in ultrahigh magnetic field strength combined with ultrahigh and ultrafast gradient technology has provided enormous gains in sensitivity, resolution, and contrast for neuroimaging. This article provides an overview of the technical advantages and challenges of performing clinical neuroimaging studies at ultrahigh magnetic field strength combined with ultrahigh and ultrafast gradient technology. Emerging clinical applications of 7-T MRI and state-of-the-art gradient systems equipped with up to 300 mT/m gradient strength are reviewed, and the impact and benefits of such advances to anatomical, structural and functional MRI are discussed in a variety of neurological conditions. Finally, an outlook and future directions for ultrahigh field MRI combined with ultrahigh and ultrafast gradient technology in neuroimaging are examined.

Automated summary

Research on ultrahigh magnetic field strength combined with ultrahigh and ultrafast gradient technology has significantly improved sensitivity, resolution, and contrast for neuroimaging. Clinical applications of 7-T MRI and advanced gradient systems with up to 300 mT/m gradient strength have been reviewed, showcasing their impact on anatomical, structural, and functional MRI in various neurological conditions. The outlook and future directions for ultrahigh field MRI combined with ultrahigh and ultrafast gradient technology in neuroimaging have also been explored in the article.